Penny’s Baptism

From L to R, Godmother Kristina, John, Jess and Penelope, Godfather Father Paul. Thank you to Joe Indovina for these pictures!

On Sunday morning, July 31, I walked Jordan outside very early. We live next to a large field and lately, I noticed two young bucks with emerging antlers were often there to greet us. On this day, there were three. Three young bucks. They stared at Jordan and I for a moment and then dashed off.

I took note of this and then looked at the gardenia plant I had been nursing for three months. It had three gorgeous blooms. My first thought was three for the Holy Trinity of my church. These spiritual signs felt significant to me. I often look for signs of God in nature.

John and Jess arrived at our house before we all departed for the church. I realized I forgot to tell Jess that Penny would get her new christening dress after her baptism. I decided to check my vintage stash and I found a little white dress that I knew was from a past baptism. Jess said it would fit and it did. Penny is wearing it in the picture below. My mom told me a day later that it was my sister Mary’s baptismal dress.

There were so many other special things about Penny’s baptism day. Aunt Joy sent a beautiful heirloom ring that was given to her by her parents on her sixth birthday. Gold and tiny, I gave it to Jess for safekeeping until Penny is a little older and can wear it. My friend Daleen sent an embroidered handkerchief that I placed in the box with Penny’s dress. My friend Cathy sent the very first card and it was on the gift table at my house. It was Jess’ departed brother Alex’s birthday weekend and I thought of him many times. Friends came from miles around, as far as Minnesota, New Jersey, and North Carolina. Penny was in her usual joyful mood. She is such a happy child! Smiling at everyone, including her godparents Kristina and Paul, made us all feel blessed to be a part of this amazing day.

At the picnic at our house afterward, Jess’ mom Ann had “Penelope Katherine” bottles of wine for favors. John made his special brisket (awesome!); Chris’ Watermelon Feta salad was a huge hit. Aunt KC brought her famous stuffed grape leaves. I made American potato salad (10 lbs worth!) and topped it with shredded cheddar and crumbled bacon. That was definitely popular!

The sky got a bit dark at times and I felt a sprinkle while in the yard during the picnic. I held my breath and hoped it wouldn’t pour. It didn’t! We had 40-50 people at our house and getting them all inside might be a bit challenging! Later I found out that only a few miles away was a downpour enough to create puddles on the road. There are some things that are grace, pure and simple, and this was one of them.

I will have a lifetime of memories from Penny’s baptism day. Thank you God for such a beautiful day! Here’s a few more pictures I want to share with you!

Penny loved Father Emmanuel’s bibleAmma and BostonKristina, Penny, Me and JessThe CelebrationFather Emmanuel captivates PennyIt’s over! Back to Mom and Dad!Penny and her buddy AlexFamilyJohn, Jess and Penny

Abundant blessings! What a sacred and touching day, Joanne, and the wonderful bare-footed star was Penelope, though there many shining stars of family and friends surrounding her!
Thank you for sharing this special day through lovely pictures and vivid details. You have a beautiful family.

I love that she had her bare feet out too Marylin! We had socks for her but our priest places holy oil in the sign of a cross on her feet. So it was socks off for Penny! What a wonderful day it was. Thank you for sharing in our joy. xoxo

God Bless your beautiful little granddaughter💖 What a beautiful family you have Joanne, and what a beautiful day of celebration! I love Penny’s box that’s filled with so many special things to cherish. The pictures are lovely, and I so enjoyed them !

Oh Joanne! What a beautiful post and photos to go with it. I had tears in my eyes the whole time as I read about the way you find God in your daily life – both hidden (the gardenia!) and up front (in church!).
What a blessing and honor to be your friend. I’ve been saving your posts and plan to savor each one over the next couple of days. Thank you for sharing your sweet Penny with us – being a grandma looks amazing on you 🙂 xo

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Hi There!

I’m a Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania blogger, published author, wedding/event planner, and a recovering perfectionist! I love to look for grace in everyday life. Love, marriage, faith, children, and grandchildren are my favorite topics. Join me as I look for joyous moments.

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